New tricks?

Despite the dog adage, you’re never too old to learn, and doing so can improve your health and wellbeing

- Kate Jones

Are you aware of the health benefits of doing something you’ve never done before? Learning something new causes the brain to build connections between neurons, while novel experiences deliver a rush of the ‘happy hormone’ dopamine. Breaking the routine can also make time feel like it’s passing more slowly and new projects and goals can cultivate a ‘growth mindset’ (‘I’ll get better’, instead of ‘I’m hopeless’), which fosters resilience and perseverance. The NHS has even categorised learning new skills as one of five steps for improving mental health and wellbeing.